I was contacted this afternoon by the Disaster Operations Center managing the multi-state Hurricane Sandy response efforts. A request was made for a detailed roster of Alabama Mass Feeding resources and personnel available for possible rapid deployment into New York. Federal and state authorities are working to conclude emergency operations and SBDR Area Command has committed to support this disaster response with a mobilization of the largest D/R effort since Katrina if these resources are required. We are currently awaiting word regarding decisions being made by our partners in disaster response and Emergency Management.
I have received notification this evening that decisions surrounding the need for Alabama’s Mass Feeding and support units has been delayed 24 hours. This is not uncommon due to the ongoing emergency operations still taking place. The states affected as well as contiguous states of impact areas have already engaged their state convention disaster relief units. An initial first wave of deployment has already taken place for areas that can be accessed, assessed, and supported.
Please encourage the Alabama Baptist Family to pray for those impacted, emergency personnel, disaster relief teams responding, and those soon to respond. I will remain in contact with Area Command and will communicate additional information as this issue develops. Blessings and remember; you make the difference!